Fairview Cemetery

Decoration Day, on Tuesday, May 30th, though uncomfortably hot, was celebrated by the citizens of Matteawan and Fishkill Landing, who showed their patriotism and appreciation of the service rendered by the soldiers in putting down the great rebellion. The band from Newburgh arrived, accompanied by a delegation from Post Ellis of that city. They were met by the Denning Guards and Excelsior Fire Company No. 1, and marched to Matteawan, where they were received by a delegation from Post Howland, No. 48, G.A.R., and Protection Fire Company, No 3 of Matteawan.

The procession went to the Catholic Cemetery (Old St. Joachim’s) and then to the Protestant Episcopal Cemetery (St. Luke’s) and “beautiful flowers were strewn upon the graves”. Fishkill Standard, 1871

This was the first Memorial Day in what is now the City of Beacon, organized by the newly formed Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.).